In May of 2020, the Pasadena Branch of the NAACP launched the NAACP Pasadena Branch Stimulus Fund. Under the direction of Allen Edson, President, the fund was established to support African American businesses in Pasadena/Altadena that did not receive relief from the CARES ACT (STIMULUS).
Edson states, “Our community is experiencing unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. African American small businesses have been impacted by a lack of patronage, cut back on employee hours and lay-off their workforce.” “The inception of the idea was to identify three local businesses with the objective of providing grants in the amount of $500.00 each. Donations, from our friends, supporters, and believers in the mission of the NAACP was overwhelming. Subsequently, we have been able to provide grants in the amount of $2,000.00 each, to ten (10) local businesses.” NAACP- Pasadena Branch will continue offering grants to small Black-owned businesses during this unprecedented time. “Our goal is to raise $200,000.00. We are reaching out to ask individuals and small businesses that support the NAACP to continue supporting our noble effort. We are seeking donations of a minimum of $500.00. However, no contribution is too small.” Contributions may be made on-line at: naacppasadena.org or by sending a check to the NAACP office: 595 N. Lincoln Avenue, Suite 103 Pasadena, CA 91103. Allen concluded, “Your support to the fund is critically important. We have reached the time where collective support of each other is vital. Our African American business community needs our support now more than ever.” Cover Photo: With grateful acknowledgement the Pasadena Journal publisher Ruth Hopkins receives a grant from NAACP Presdient Allen Edson. Photo by Brother Yusef. |
|
